Breakfast & Brunch > Breakfast Drinks (Non-Alcoholic) > Coffee > Iced Coffee Recipe

Vietnamese Iced Coffee (Cafe Sua Da)

Experience the rich and bold flavors of Vietnamese Iced Coffee (Cafe Sua Da) right in your kitchen! This recipe delivers a strong coffee kick perfectly balanced with sweet condensed milk for a truly satisfying breakfast or brunch drink.

Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
4-5 minutes (brewing)
Servings
1
Ingredients
  • 2 tablespoons Dark roast coffee grounds (Vietnamese coffee preferred)
  • 4 ounces Hot water
  • 2-3 tablespoons Sweetened condensed milk
  • As needed Ice cubes

Brewing the Coffee (Using a Phin Filter)

Traditionally, Vietnamese coffee is brewed using a phin filter. Place the phin on top of a glass. Add the coffee grounds to the phin. Gently shake to level the grounds. Place the filter press on top of the grounds and press down lightly. Pour a small amount of hot water (about 1 tablespoon) over the grounds and let it bloom for about 30 seconds. Then, slowly pour the remaining hot water over the grounds.

Brewing Without a Phin Filter

If you don't have a phin filter, you can use a French press or a pour-over method. Brew the coffee strong, using a higher coffee-to-water ratio than usual.

Adding Condensed Milk

While the coffee is brewing, add the sweetened condensed milk to the bottom of your glass. The amount can be adjusted to your preferred sweetness. Usually 2-3 tablespoons is a good starting point.

Pouring and Mixing

Once the coffee has finished brewing, it will slowly drip into the glass with the condensed milk. Stir well to combine the coffee and condensed milk. The mixture will be a rich, dark brown color.

Adding Ice and Serving

Fill the glass with ice cubes. Stir again to chill the coffee. Serve immediately and enjoy the strong, sweet, and refreshing taste of Vietnamese Iced Coffee.

← Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew →

FAQ

  • What if I don't have Vietnamese coffee?

    You can use any dark roast coffee, but Vietnamese coffee beans (often Robusta) have a distinctive strong and slightly bitter flavor that is traditional for this drink.
  • Can I use regular milk instead of condensed milk?

    Condensed milk is key to the flavor and texture of Cafe Sua Da. It provides a unique sweetness and creaminess that regular milk cannot replicate. You can find it in most grocery stores in the Asian foods section.
  • How do I adjust the strength of the coffee?

    Adjust the amount of coffee grounds you use or the amount of hot water. Using more coffee grounds and less water will result in a stronger brew. You can also add a bit more hot water if the coffee is too strong.